Ottawa author Randy Ray and co-author Mark Kearney of London, Ont. have published their ninth book, The Big Book of Canadian Trivia. The latest Ray-Kearney effort is as a “greatest hits” book that contains the best Canadiana from their previous eight books, plus an astounding amount of new material. In one big book readers will find all the trivia and facts about Canada they need to know: there are stories of important Canadian artifacts and history including what became of Canada’s World War II spy camp. All regions and provinces are covered, as well as important Canadian figures like John Molson, Elizabeth Arden and Russ Jackson. If that isn’t enough there are sections explaining whatever happened to such Canadian icons as the last spike, labour leader Bob White, hockey tough guy Dave “The Hammer Schultz,” the first skidoo, former Ottawa 67 player Denis Potvin, swimmer Marilyn Bell and the first Tim Hortons donut shop. Some items are “classics” while others are little known facts. Approximately 25% of the material has never before appeared in print. The Big Book of Canadian Trivia is published by The Dundurn Group of Toronto. Ray and Kearney have sold more than 50,000 copies of their books. The Big Book of Canadian Trivia is now available in stores and at: www.triviaguys.com .

Documenting four decades of the National Arts Centre (NAC), Sarah Jenning’s book, Art and Politics- The History of the National Arts Centre, is a real treat for Canadian art culture enthusiasts. The book details the developments of the arts scene in Canada while highlighting the memories of the many participants who contributed to the NAC’s history. In it, you’ll find the stories of the many patrons, performers and board members who supported the NAC through its rough periods and helped in the rebirth of the organization.

Sarah Jennings has spent the last five years sifting through archival material and collecting first person accounts for the purposes of this book. Her work has been highlighted in the BBC, CBC, Wall Street Journal, National Post, Financial Post, and the Globe and Mail. Jennings was a lecturer at the School of Journalism at Carleton University until 2005, and currently resides in Ottawa.